Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds formed by certain types of fungi. Mycotoxins are actually derived from other chemicals such as polypeptides, amino acids, phenols, or terpenoids - which the fungus uses in its normal metabolism. There are hundreds of known mycotoxins produced by molds and macrofungi and additional toxins are discovered each year. Many species of fungi also produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are responsible for the chemical, earthy, or moldy odors often associated with contaminated environments. Unlike mycotoxins, VOCs are derived from alcohols, ketones, and hydrocarbons. As the term "volatile" implies VOCs exist as gases at room temperature and are readily separated from spores and vegetative cells. Mycotoxins and VOCs have one thing in common: they are capable of causing short-term and long-term health effects, ranging from headaches, fatigue, and skin irritations to organ damage and cancer.